Player Profile

Fans of the Oakland Raiders know the phrase “quarterback competition” almost more than any other in the English language. That is no different for the 2013 season, but Matt Flynn hopes that the competition ends his well-traveled career and ends with him.

Lance Moore is one of those players that understands what it means to pay your dues in the world of professional football. Now, after eight years in the league, he is going to be a starting wide received for the New Orleans Saints, and it is totally deserved.

Steven Ridley always knew that he was talented and had the drive to be a star in the NFL. He knew it wouldn’t be easy though, and his path to being a starter for the New England Patriots was a long road with a lot of others standing in his way.

When Paul Kruger was drafted to Baltimore, many expected him to become the next great Ravens player. With a high motor and great athleticism, the potential was there. After a slow start to his career, Kruger is finally putting it all together.

When the Ravens lost Ricky Williams to retirement, many wondered who would take over his role. The Ravens knew Rice wasn’t an every down back. To keep Rice fresh, they would need someone to compliment him in certain situations. Bernard Pierce seems to be the answer for Baltimore. If his time at Temple is any indication, Pierce can become a dangerous running back.

Playing professional football can be a grueling ordeal. For players like Jameel McClain, it can be especially difficult. Having to prove yourself every day can take its toll. But McClain is used to this type of struggle. He’s a fighter.

When Jimmy Smith sat down to watch the NFL Draft, he didn’t expect to go in the first round. Rumors about failed drug tests and incidents with the law painted a bad image. But the Ravens took a chance on the young corner anyway, and Jimmy Smith has yet to disappoint.

The big story heading into the 2012 season centered on Justin Tucker. A relatively unknown kicker would replace the man who missed the biggest kick in Ravens history. But from what we’ve seen so far, the rookie kicker isn’t playing like a rookie at all.

Two drops changed Jacoby Jones’ career forever. Only one of the drops were committed by someone else entirely. A week after Jones muffed a punt in the playoffs, Lee Evans dropped a would be score that would have sent the Ravens to the Super Bowl. The result of these events seems to have changed Jones’ career for the better.